News

Vigor wins award to build the U.S. Armys Maneuver Support Vessel (Light), MSV(L), a new generation of landing craft for U.S. Army.

(October 2017)

The Vigor MSV(L) design will replace the aging LCM-8 Mike boats.

In a highly competitive bid process, the U.S. Army has chosen the Vigor design for its new generation of landing craft. The contract represents the largest award in Vigors history with a total value of $979,390,000 over a ten year period and will provide sustained full time employment for roughly 200 skilled artisans.

This award is the culmination of a five year process of research and development that first began with Kvichak prior to its merger with Vigor, explains Frank Foti, Vigor CEO. We are grateful for the exceptional work done by our entire team and honored to have been selected to serve the Army in this important project.

The Vigor MSV(L) design was developed in partnership with BMT following a detailed study of the Armys unique needs and the available design options to fulfill those needs. It dramatically improves the capabilities of the current LCM-8 and provides the optimal combination of performance, operational flexibility and life-cycle cost while maintaining the reliability and versatility of the Armys current craft.

The landing crafts tribow monohull is an innovative yet deceptively simple design that provides superior maneuverability and stability in high sea states, through the littorals and within inland waterways in support of land-based operations.

Phase one of the program will begin immediately and center on design refinement and prototype construction, said Tim Kolb, general manager of Vigor Ballard who spearheaded the proposal process. The contract calls for one prototype vessel, four vessels under low rate production, and up to thirty two additional vessels for use by Army Mariners in even the most difficult environments.

Vigors team currently consists of a number of key partners including BMT, Gladding-Hearn and Northrop Grumman.

Vigor has begun construction of a fifth 45 Response Boat - Medium C (RB-M C) for its long-time customer, the New York Police Department Harbor Unit. The vessel will be fabricated at Vigor Ballard (formerly Kvichak Marine) in the Seattle metro area with delivery expected in November.

The RB-M C is the commercial variant of the Response Boat - Medium (RB-M) designed by Vigor in partnership with Camarc Design for high speed and high performance, including tactical handling and specialized mission capabilities for the U.S. Coast Guard. To date, 174 RB-Ms have been delivered to the Coast Guard. The commercial variant offers more crew comfort and amenities than the RB-M while maintaining the capabilities needed for maritime security.

Vigor has been steadily expanding its production capabilities and its international footprint in high performance vessels following its acquisitions of Kvichak and Oregon Iron Works, both now operating under the Vigor name. It is currently building two RB-Ms for Jordan and is in active negotiations with other nations. Its Combatant Craft Medium (CCM) and SEALION I, II and III for the U.S. Navy have earned respect around the world. Vigors autonomous vessel deliveries also continue to grow following the delivery of Sea Hunter built in partnership with Leidos for DARPA and the recent delivery of three autonomous vessels to a foreign customer.

Vigor was recently awarded the contract to build two additional all-aluminum, 400 passenger ferries for WETA (the Water Emergency Transportation Authority) in San Francisco, CA. The hulls will be constructed at Vigor Ballard (formerly Kvichak) and the superstructure at Vigors Harbor Island shipyard.

In the spring of 2015, Vigor began construction on the first two WETA ferries in this class, said Tim Kolb, General Manager of Vigor Ballard. Its an efficient design and very environmentally friendly. Were extremely pleased to extend our partnership with WETA for two more vessels.

The four Vigor vessels will play critical roles in maintaining service reliability in WETAs planned expansion of ferry service on the San Francisco Bay, said Nina Rannells, WETA Executive Director. Vigor has been a strong partner in our ongoing fleet renewal process. We look forward to continuing the relationship.

45' RB-M C Contract Award
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

(January 2017)

Vessels will be built by Vigor at it's Ballard, Wash. facility (formerly Kvichak Marine)

Fincantieri Marinette Marine (FMM) announced today that it has been awarded a contract for 2 additional Response Boat  Medium (RB-Ms) vessels by the U.S. Coast Guard. The 2 boats are part of a Foreign Military Sale to The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Delivery is scheduled to begin in the 4th quarter of 2017. This award brings the total number of RB-Ms to 176 built by Team RB-M, originally formed by FMM and Kvichak Marine. FMM will act as the Prime Contractor and Program Manager. The new boats will be upgraded for the Jordanian Navys specific mission requirements and the challenging operational environment. These two vessels will be constructed by Vigor in one of its Seattle, Washington Facilities.

Fincantieri Marinette Marine and Vigor take great pride in supplying the RB-M. The proven track record, performance, and flexibility make it an excellent platform for nearshore security said Jan Allman, President and CEO of Fincantieri Marinette Marine. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with the US Coast Guard, and developing a new partnership with Jordan.

45' RB-M C Contract Award
New York Police Dept

(August 2015)

Kvichak Marine Industries, a Vigor Company, is currently constructing the fourth 44.5 Response Boat Medium  C (RB-M C) for the New York Police Department Harbor Unit. The first three vessels were delivered in April 2010, August 2012 and April 2013. The RB-M Cs have been providing maritime security and law enforcement along with search and rescue in the New York metropolitan area.

The RB-M C has proven itself in the most challenging missions, said Art Parker, Vigor sales manager. The Kvichak team is honored to be building a fourth boat to support what is arguably the finest and most experienced marine patrol units in the world.

A full cabin provides crew protection from the elements and is equipped with a robust navigation system, heat and air conditioning, shock mitigating seats and a communication system capable of communicating with other maritime security partners.

48' Foil Research Catamaran Award
King County Environmental Laboratory

(June 2015)

Kvichak Marine Industries, a Vigor Company, was recently awarded a contract to design and build a 48 all-aluminum foil assisted research catamaran for the King County Environmental Laboratory. The vessel will operate in Puget Sound, the Straits of Juan de Fuca and adjoining inland waterways. The vessel will be conducting water sampling research along with marine buoy calibration, maintenance and retrieval, tours and shoreline surveys, dive and ROV operations.

This will be the thirteenth foil assisted catamaran Kvichak has built since 2000. Kvichaks unique foil design enhances seakeeping at top speeds leading to reduced full consumption and greater efficiency. In addition, at lower speeds the system provides considerable heave and pitch damping, making the hull an excellent platform for the type of survey work performed by research vessels. King Countys environmental lab serves a mission to help protect and enhance water quality in the Puget Sound region so our citizens can continue to enjoy it for years to come, said Keith Whittemore, Vigor executive vice president of business development. Thats definitely a mission near and dear to our hearts. The Kvichak team is proud to provide a vessel that will assist in this important work.

The vessel will be powered by Cummins Tier III engines, Hamilton water jets and Twin Disc gears. Other features include a full service water quality lab, chemical storage locker, 36 x 36 moonpool on the aft deck, AirMar Weather Station 200WX system, two staterooms with one berth each and full galley with settee.

Kvichak Marine Industries, a Vigor Industrial Company, was recently awarded a contract by the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA), San Francisco, CA for the design and construction of two all-aluminum 400 passenger-only ferries.

The whole Kvichak team is incredibly proud to have been selected to build WETAs two new state-of-the-art ferries, said Keith Whittemore, President of Kvichak Marine Industries. We will build two great boats that will serve the citizens of the Bay Area for decades.

The new vessels will replace two of WETAs 12-vessel fleet that are approaching the end of their expected life. The Vessel Replacement project is part of the ongoing fleet renewal process, which will enable WETA to provide reliable service across our system and enhance our customers experience when traveling or commuting across the Bay, said Nina Rannells, WETA executive director. We look forward to working with Kvichak to enhance our fleet of passenger ferries.

Kvichak awarded Nichols Brothers Boat Builders the subcontract to provide the bolt-on superstructure for the project. From 2007 to 2010, the two companies collaborated on the delivery of four 118 environmentally friendly ferries to WETA which are currently in service in the San Francisco Bay area.

The vessels will be the 700th and 701st vessels built by Kvichak and are anticipated to be in service the summer of 2017.

60' Research Catamaran Award
California Dept of Water Resources

(March 2015)

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc. was recently awarded a contract for construction of a 60 aluminum catamaran research vessel for the California Department of Water Resources designed by Incat Crowther, Australia with design guidance and customer representation by Jensen Maritime Consultants. The vessels primary application will be monitoring water quality, phytoplankton, zooplankton and benthic macro-invertebrates. The vessel will be operating in the San Francisco Bay Estuary, San Pablo Bay Estuary and the Pacific Ocean within five miles of shore and the adjoining inland waterways.

The research vessel will be powered by twin Cummins QSB6.7 diesel engines rated for 425hp @ 2800 rpm and fitted to Twin Disc MGX5065 marine gears. The pilot house laboratory has a full complement of scientific water monitoring equipment along with overnight accommodations for 5 scientists.

(2) 19m All-Weather Pilot Boat Award
from the Port of Duqm Company SAOCSultanate of Oman

(January 2015)

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc. has recently been awarded a contract for the construction of two 19m all-weather Pilot Boats for the Port of Duqm Company SAOC, Sultanate of Oman. Designed by Camarc Design, Ltd., UK, their primary function will be as pilot boats and they will also function as Search and Rescue and oil spill recovery vessels.

These all-aluminum vessels will be powered by twin Cummins QSK-19 marine diesel engines rated for 800 hp @ 2100 rpm each and twin ZF 2000A transmissions driving NiBrAl 5-bladed fixed propellers providing an operating speed of ~20 knots. The pilot boats will perform safely in all types of weather including the high winds and stormy seas experienced in southern Oman during "Hareef" (typhoon) season.

The Port of Duqm is undergoing a major multiphase expansion project creating the new Port and Drydock Complex located on the southeastern seaboard of the Sultanate of Oman. Kvichak Marine is excited to be part of the new port growth and expansion.

32' Transportable Port Security BoatContract Award from the USCG

(Sept 2014)

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc., of Seattle, WA, was awarded a five year contract by the U.S. Coast Guard for the construction of 32 Transportable Port Security Boats (TPSB) in 2011. Kvichak has delivered 52 vessels to date. The USCG recently awarded an additional 7 vessels to the contract. The TPSB is an all-aluminum vessel operated by a crew of 4 and includes shock mitigating seats to minimize crew fatigue on extended missions. Ballistic Armor Protection and up to 4 mounted weapons provide increased mission capability and crew safety during tactical operations.

Powered by twin Yanmar 315 hp diesel engines with Bravo 1-XR outdrives the TPSB provides security, maritime law enforcement, and search and rescue operations in coast areas worldwide. The TPSB can maneuver in as little as 24 of water and can operate safely in 8 seas and up to 30 knots of wind.

32' Top House Gillnetterproduction run for 2015 season

(June 2014)

THE KVICHAK IS BACK!
Kvichak quality is back in the Bristol Bay fishing fleet.

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc. is excited to announce the start of a production run of 32 Bristol Bay Gillnetters for the 2015 season. This new, top house design all-aluminum 32 x 16 jet propelled gillnetter is a product of the Kvichak design team and will be powered by twin Volvo D11 EVEC-E engines rated for 510 BHP coupled to ZF 305-3 marine gears and Hamilton HJ364 water jets.

This fresh design will combine shallow draft capability with short transit times to the line, and the ability to maintain planning speed when partially loaded. The unique top house arrangement maximizes creature comforts while maintaining a large efficient working deck.

NSEDC66' Shallow Draft Tender Award

(November 2013)

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc. was recently awarded a contract by Norton Sound Economic Development Corporation (NSEDC) to build an all-aluminum 66 Shallow Draft Tender to be used for multiple fisheries in and around Norton Sound, AK.

Designed by Kvichak Marine, the 66 x 25 tender will be powered by twin Cummins QSM11 marine diesel engines rated for 450 BHP at 2100 RPM. The engines are coupled to ZF 360 transmissions that drive NiBrAl 4-blade propellers.

Columbia River Bar Pilots72' Pilot Vessel Award

(March 2013)

Kvichak Marine Industries was recently awarded a contract to build a self-righting 72 all-aluminum pilot boat, Astoria, for the Columbia River Bar Pilots (CRBP) of Astoria, OR. The continued success and reliability of the Columbia and Chinook lead CRBP to once again choose Camarc, Ltd., of the UK as the designer and Kvichak Marine as the builder for the Astoria.

The pilots operate the vessels over the bar at the mouth of the Columbia River. Known for its extreme weather and turbulent waters, the Columbia River Bar is where the Columbia River collides with the Pacific Ocean. The resulting conditions require reliable, stable, and at times self-righting pilot boats that safely and successfully transport pilots to and from the ships, tankers and tugs that navigate across the Bar.

Savannah Pilots Association64' Pilot Vessel Award

For over 140 years the Savannah Pilots Association has safely guided vessels on the 25 ½ mile journey from the sea to the port of Savannah. They require vessels with excellent sea keeping ability and maneuverability even in the worst of sea conditions, again they are turning to Kvichak.

Designed by Camarc Design, UK, the 64 x 19 vessel is powered by twin MTU 12V2000 engines rated for 1450 BHP each with Hamilton 521 waterjets and ZF 3050 marine gears. This combination will allow excellent maneuverability and a top speed of ~33 knots.

Southwest Alaska Pilots Association50' Pilot Vessel Award

Kvichak Marine Industries, of Seattle, WA, was recently awarded a contract to build a 50 x 15.5 pilot vessel for the Southwest Alaska Pilots Association (SWAPA). SWAPA provides pilotage service in the coastal areas of South Central Alaska.

Designed by Kvichak Marine, the all-aluminum vessel will be powered by twin CAT C18 ACERT tier II engines rated for 715 BHP coupled to Twin Disc MGX-5135SC marine gears. Hamilton 364 waterjets are the chosen propulsors. This combination allows for excellent maneuverability and a top speed of ~ 32 knots. The vessel will have a Wing Hybrid fendering system.

L.A. County Sheriff's Department Award45' Response Boat - Medium C

(December 2012)

Kvichak Marine Industries, of Seattle, WA, has recently been awarded a contract for a 44.5 X 13.7 Response Boat Medium  C for operation by the Los Angeles County Sheriffs department. The RBM-C is the sistership of the highly successful USCG RB-M and has been adapted to meet the CBRNE Detection mission requirements of the LA County Sheriffs department. Kvichak has built four commercial RB-M vessels for various municipalities in the United States.

Designed by Camarc Design, UK, the all-aluminum vessel is powered by twin Detroit Diesel 60 series engines rated for 825 BHP each. Rolls Royce Kamewa FF375S waterjets were chosen as the propulsors with Twin Disc MG5114SC transmission. This combination allows for excellent maneuverability and a top speed exceeding 40 knots.

US Navy Contract Award(15) 30' Rapid Response Skimmer - Wide

(September 2012)

Kvichak Marine, Industries, Inc. was recently awarded a contract by the U.S. Navy for fifteen (15) 30 Rapid Response Skimmers to be delivered to various Navy bases over the next 12 months. The Navy currently owns and operates over 70 Kvichak-built skimmers worldwide as the Navys tier one response asset.

The rapid-response, shallow-water capable skimmer is ideally suited for use on oil spills in waterways, bays and harbors. The all-aluminum skimmer is 30  3 long, with a beam of 9-8, and a draft of 2 - 6", and is easily trailerable. Powered by twin 90hp outboards, the skimmer has a response speed of up to 17 knots and features an enclosed two person pilothouse for operator comfort.

Adaptable to a variety of marine spill scenarios, this highly specialized vessel works well in many recovery configurations, from free skimming through towed-boom applications, and is able to recover a very wide range of spills from light sheens to very viscous weathered oil products. The skimmers oil recovery system includes a KVICHAK/MARCO Cl-1 Filterbelt oil skimming module, a KVICHAK/MARCO U-040 Capsulpump offload system with 50 hose, and a recovered oil capacity of over 1,200 gallons. The recovered oil tank configuration allows segregation of small volume spills to simplify post-spill decontamination. Onboard hydraulic power is supplied by an under-deck diesel HPU.

Puget Sound Energy Contract Award(2) Marine Transport Vessels

(April 2012)

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc. (KMI), Seattle, WA was recently awarded a contract by Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to design and build one each 32 and 38 Marine Transport Vessels for PSEs Baker River Hydroelectric Project. The vessels will be used at a new downstream fish-passage facility PSE is constructing behind the utilitys Lower Baker Dam to further enhance fish populations in the Skagit-Baker watershed in northwest Washington.

The transport vessels will be utilized to transport personnel, equipment and collected juvenile fish in custom aluminum tanks designed to minimize any stress imposed on the fish. Constructed of marine grade aluminum alloy, the vessels are designed with a flat bottom and flat deck along with a pilothouse built to accommodate two persons. The 7,500 lb aluminum tanks sit on the deck of each vessel and transport captured fish from the innovative Floating Surface Collector PSE is building to the shore, where the fish are then transported around the dam by water truck before being placed back in the river for downstream migration.

New Product launchPatrol 28

(March 2012)

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc. recently constructed and launched a new vessel at their facility in Seattle, WA. The Patrol 28 is an all-aluminum vessel designed by Kvichak/Amgram Ltd., UK for effective operation in port and coastal waters, including shallow areas throughout the world. The parent design is based on the Offshore Raiding Craft from Holyhead Marine, UK for the UK Royal Marines. Missions for the Patrol 28 include search and rescue, border patrol and maritime security.

Powered by twin Honda 225 hp VTEC outboards, the Patrol 28 cruises at speeds over 45 knots. The design has incorporated the follow features:
 Low freeboard aft to assist in recovery of personnel from the water
 Fendering system designed for shock absorption and protection from damage when alongside other vessels
 Excellent visibility from all seats in the deckhouse
 Very steady seakeeping with exceptional maneuvering characteristics
 Two crew members seated next to opening windows to permit easy use of their weapons
 Wide arcs of fire for both fore and aft gun stations; generous overlap where both guns can be brought to bear
 Foredeck arranged for easy boarding, with access on both sides of deckhouse to enable crew movement during boarding

500th Kvichak hull launch45' RB-M C for SPD Harbor Patrol Unit

(March 2012)

Kvichak Marine Industries is proud to announce the launch of their 500th hull built in Ballard, WA. Kvichak has successfully designed, constructed and delivered aluminum workboats to hundreds of commercial owners and operators around the world for over 30 years. The 500th hull is a 45 Response Boat Medium  C (RBM-C) for operation by the Seattle Police Department Harbor Patrol Unit to be named Patrol 9. The RBM-C is the sistership of the highly successful USCG RB-M and has been adapted to meet the mission requirements of the SPD Harbor Patrol Unit. Last year Kvichak delivered its first commercial RB-M to the New York Police Department Harbor Unit.

Designed by Camarc Design, UK, the all-aluminum vessel is powered by twin Detroit Diesel 60 series engines rated for 825 BHP each. Rolls Royce Kamewa FF375S waterjets were chosen as the propulsors. This combination allows for excellent maneuverability and a top speed exceeding 40 knots.

SPD will take delivery of their new RBM-C in late April and will be ready for service for the Opening Day of boating season May 5th. Patrol 9 will be on display at the Seattle Maritime Festival on Pier 66/Bell Harbor Marina on Saturday, May 12th. Kvichak and the SPD Harbor Unit are hosting an open house at the Harbor Unit facility on north Lake Union Saturday, May 19th from 11am to 3pm. The RBM-C will be on display along with the Kvichak Harbor Patrol vessels built in 1997 and 2005.

Kvichak Marine Industries, of Seattle, WA, has recently been awarded a contract to build a 65 passenger catamaran for the Chemehuevi Transit Authority of Lake Havasu, California. The vessel will operate as a ferry on Lake Havasu, with ports of call at Lake Havasu City on the Arizona side and at Havasu Landing on the California side. This project will be partially funded by a U.S. Department of Transportation Ferry Boat Discretionary award.

Designed by Kvichak Marine, the 150-passenger cat is powered by twin MTU series 60 diesel engines, rated for 600 HP @ 2100 RPM, and fitted to ZF 550 marine gears. Construction will commence on this all-aluminum, 646 x 24' catamaran in February 2012. The vessel will operate at a service speed of 20+ knots and will be capable of operating with a crew of three.

(2) 50' PILOT VESSELS UNDER CONSTRUCTION FOR THE CRESCENT RIVER PORT PILOTS

(Nov 2011)

Kvichak Marine Industries, of Seattle, WA, has recently been awarded a contract to build two 50 x 15.5 pilot vessels for the Crescent River Port Pilots (CRPPA) of Louisiana. The Crescent River Port Pilots operate on the Mississippi River between Pilot Town and New Orleans, LA.

Designed by Kvichak Marine, the all-aluminum vessels will be powered by twin Detroit Diesel 60 series engines rated for 600 BHP coupled to Twin Disc MG5114SC marine gears. Hamilton 364 waterjets are the chosen propulsors. This combination allows for excellent maneuverability and a top speed of
~ 32 knots. These vessels have a Wing Hybrid fendering system and a roof boarding platform specifically designed for the CRPPA.

Delivery for the first vessel is scheduled for May 2012 and the second vessel in September 2012.

SEATTLE CITY LIGHT ORDERS SECOND PUSH BOAT

(Nov 2011)

Seattle City Light has awarded a contract to Kvichak Marine Industries to build a 25  9 push boat designed by Kvichak Marine to operate at Ross Lake in the North Cascades. The push boat will be used for large debris removal to ensure continuous power generation through the dam. Kvichak delivered a similar vessel to Seattle City Light in April 2011 which services Diablo Lake.

The hull and superstructure will be constructed of marine grade aluminum alloy plate and extrusions. The pilothouse is removable due to the delivery challenges. The route to Ross Lake includes a tunnel, tight switch backs on the remote road that leads to the lake and the variable lake water levels. Two vertical push knees will be located at the bow. The knees will be padded by 6 D-section rubber.

The push boat will be powered by a John Deere 300 hp turbo charged diesel engine with a stainless steel prop in a 37 nozzle.

Kvichak Marine Industries, of Seattle, WA, is currently constructing two 4411 X 147 Response Boat Medium  C (RB-M C) vessels for operation by the New York City Police Harbor Unit (NYPD). Kvichak delivered the first RB-M C, harbor launch #451, to the NYPD in May 2010. These vessels will be part of the NYPD fleet for missions of proactive anti-terrorism patrol, search, rescue and recovery operations. This vessel is the commercial model of the highly successful USCG Response Boat Medium which Kvichak has been building since 2008.

Designed by Camarc Design, UK, the all-aluminum vessel is powered by twin Detroit Diesel 60 series engines rated for 825 BHP each with Rolls Royce Kamewa FF375S waterjets as propulsors. This combination allows for excellent maneuverability and a top speed exceeding 44 knots.

Delivery for the first vessel is scheduled for April 2012 and the second vessel in August 2012.

Kvichak Marine Industries, of Seattle, WA, has recently been awarded a contract for a 44.5 X 13.7 Response Boat Medium  C for operation by the Seattle Police Department Harbor Patrol Unit. The RBM-C is the sistership of the highly successful USCG RB-M and has been adapted to meet the mission requirements of the SPD Harbor Patrol Unit. The vessel to be named Patrol 1 is currently under construction at Kvichaks Seattle yard and is the 500th hull built by Kvichak Marine over the past 30 years. Last year Kvichak delivered its first commercial RB-M to the New York Police Department Harbor Unit.

Designed by Camarc Design, UK, the all-aluminum vessel is powered by twin Detroit Diesel 60 series engines rated for 825 BHP each. Rolls Royce Kamewa FF375S waterjets were chosen as the propulsors. This combination allows for excellent maneuverability and a top speed exceeding 40 knots.

BRIDGE ERECTION BOAT PROTOTYPES DELIVEREDTO U.S. ARMY, TACOM

Kvichak along with two other companies were chosen to construct prototype boats. Each boat is currently undergoing extensive testing and evaluations at the Army Test Center in Aberdeen, MD. The testing process will last for up to 270 days.

TACOM intends to award a contract for a fleet of approximately 440 BEB crafts to replace its existing fleet. The contract is expected to be awarded in 2012.

Kvichak Marine has offered a technologically advanced boat meeting TACOMs objectives for evaluation and testing which we feel offers the best value solution. said Tim Kolb of Kvichak. Once evaluations and testing are completed, Kvichak looks forward to competing for the final production contract.

30' OIL SKIMMER JOINS KVICHAK LEASE FLEET

(July 2011)

KMI Leasing Co., LLC recently added a new 30 Rapid Response Skimmer  Wide version outfitted with a Kvichak/Marco Filterbelt oil recovery module to their lease fleet. The Kvichak 30 rapid-response skimmer is a high quality, shallow-water capable, near shore skimming vessel and is ideally suited for use on oil spills in waterways, bays, and harbors. The all-aluminum skimmer is 31  3 long, with a beam of 9' - 8", and a draft of 2 - 6" and is easily trailerable. Powered by twin 90hp outboards, the skimmer is capable of a response speed of over 17 knots, and a recovered oil capacity of 1200 gallons of recovered product. Recovery rates are up to 427 bbls/hr for groups 3&4 persistent oils. This highly specialized skimming system is adaptable to a variety of marine spill scenarios and is able to recover a very wide range of spills, from light sheens to thick weathered oils contaminated with debris.

In addition to the skimmer, the KMI Leasing fleet also includes two 54 high speed catamarans and a 65 catamaran with survey capability. These vessels can be used as fast response patrol boats, research or survey boats, crew boats or general work boats.

All KMI Leasing Co. vessels are available for immediate sale or lease.

TPSB CONTRACT AWARD WITH U.S. COAST GUARD

(June 2011)

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc., of Seattle, WA, was recently awarded a five year contract by the U.S. Coast Guard for the construction of up to 80 each Transportable Port SecurityBoats (TPSB). The all-aluminum vessels are operated by a crew of 4 and include shock mitigating seats to minimize crew fatigue on extended missions. Ballistic Armor Protection and up to 4 mounted weapons provide increased mission capability and crew safety during tactical operations. The 32 9 vessels will be replacing the USCGs current aging fleet of smaller, outboard powered fiberglass boats.

Powered by twin Yanmar 315 hp diesel engines with Bravo 1-XR outdrives the TPSB will provide security, maritime law enforcement and search and rescue operations in coast areas worldwide. The TPSB can maneuver in as little as 24 of water and can operate safely in 8 seas and up to 30 knots of wind.

Current orders have deliveries beginning in August with 30 units required by January 2012.

KVICHAK CUTTING FACILITY OPENING

(April 2011)

Kvichak Marine Industries, a Seattle workboat builder, was a recipient of
an ARRA small shipyard grant awarded in August 2009. One of the
improvements to Kvichak funded by this grant is a new state of the
art cutting table and brake which the Company has located into a newly
leased facility located in the South Park area of Seattle.

Flashmark Tech, a division of Kvichak Marine, is now in full production.
This new facility has a 16 325 ton 2 Axis CNC Press break and a 10 x 60
high speed router table with integrated Galvo laser marking system. This
state of the art cutting table and brake will provide KMI for the first time,
the ability to control the schedule of its cut parts being delivered to the
production floor. Just In Time (JIT) delivery of the cut & formed parts is
expected to reduce the current use of valuable boatbuilding space in the
Companys two main production facilities for parts storage thereby increasing
manufacturing capacity. This vertical integration of all plate processing
operations will reduce overall production costs, significantly reduce trucking
costs, reduce carbon emissions and increase quality control of the finished product.

54' PATROL VESSEL LAUNCHED

(January 2011)

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc. recently launched and completed successful sea trials for M/V Defender V, a new design all-aluminum foil assisted catamaran. Designed by Kvichak Marine, this 57 8 vessel can be used as a fast response patrol boat, survey boat, crew boat or general work boat.

The Defender V is powered by twin Scania DI12 69M marine diesel engines rated for 691 BHP at 2300 RPM. The engines are coupled to ZF 360A transmissions that drive Michigan propellers. In trials, the Defender V was able to achieve a flank speed of 30+ knots. The vessel features a very large aft work-deck with tie-pockets, a 2,200 lb SWL A-frame with hydraulic drum winch, and a side mounted davit with 500# SWL winch. The A-frame can facilitate launch and recovery of skiffs/ROVs and can accommodate an over-height 20 long x 8 wide container loaded on the aft deck.

Constructed to very high quality and performance standards, Defender V represents the current state of the art for foil assisted catamarans of this type.

LONG BEACH TRANSIT ORDERS SECOND CATAMARAN

(December 2010)

The brightly painted Aqualink built by Kvichak Marine Industries (KMI) and designed by Incat Crowther of Australia, has been in operation by Long Beach Transit (LBT) shuttling visitors and commuters between the Long Beach downtown/waterfront area to Alamitos Bay Landing since 2001. This successful and reliable water taxi has lead LBT back to Kvichak to build a second boat to add to their fleet and route expansion.

Aqualink II an all-aluminum, 65 x 24' fully-enclosed catamaran is currently under construction at Kvichak Marine Industries. The 74-passenger cat is powered by twin Cummins QSM 11 diesel engines, rated for 610 HP @ 2300 RPM, and fitted to ZF 360A marine gears. The vessel will operate at a service speed of ~25 knots with a crew of two.

During travel passengers can enjoy food and beverage service at the Snack Bar Kiosk that is integrated with the main passenger cabin. Kvichak will outfit the kiosk with a refrigerator, coffee brewing system, soft drink dispenser, sink, and Corian bar top.

U.S. NAVY ORDERS 5 MORE MPF UTILITY BOATS

(October 2010)

Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc. was recently awarded a contract by the United States Navy for the construction of 5 each MPF utility boats following the successful delivery of 26 vessels since February 2006. The 40 high-speed landing craft are replacing the Navys existing LCM-8 craft as part of the Improved Navy Lighterage System in support of pre-positioned Marine Amphibious assault missions.

To ensure the safety and efficiency of transporting 30 troops, their gear and / or general cargo the craft utilizes a house aft configuration and features a power bow door and high-level engine suctions for beach deployment.

Delivery of the next 5 all-aluminum crafts to active and reserve commands in multiple US locations is scheduled for completion by Spring 2011.

DUTCH PILOT BOATS BOATS CHRISTENED IN THE NETHERLANDS

(October 2010)

On September 29th the owners of Kvichak Marine Industries were proud to represent their company at the christening of P/Vs Aquila, Draco and Orion. These three 72 (22m) pilot boats were designed by Camarc Design, Ltd., UK and built at the Kvichak yard in Seattle for the Dutch Pilotage Organization, Loodswezen. The christening gala was held at Hoek van Holland, the Netherlands.

The vessels are powered by two, Tier II compliant Caterpillar ACERT C32 engines, coupled to ZF 3050 marine gears driving Hamilton 651 water jets. This combination allows for excellent maneuverability and a top speed of ~28.5 knots fully loaded. Each boat is equipped with an exhaust after treatment system; a Selective Catalytic Reduction system (SCR) and a diesel particulate filter system (DPF) meeting the stringent emission regulations set by the authorities of the Port of Rotterdam. The emissions reduction technology is provided by Hug Engineering in Switzerland and supplied and serviced through Soottech in the Netherlands. This new technology is the reason these boats were nominated for the Royal Dutch Shipowners Association (KVNR) Shipping Award 2010. The pilot boats carry three operators and 12 pilots for transport to help coordinate large ship arrivals and departures along the Dutch coast.

FIRST NEW PILOT TENDERS ARRIVES IN
HOEK VAN HOLLAND

(August 2010)photo by Piet Sinke

Yesterday afternoon did see the arrival of the first (out of a series of 3) newly built speed tenders built for the Dutch
pilot service, the DRACO sailed from Vlissingen to Hoek van Holland, she will be followed very soon by her sisters
AQUILA and ORION.

Photo by Kees Torn

Photo by Piet Sinke

The new 22-metre all-weather fast pilot tenders are built at the
Kvichak shipyard in Seattle (USA) and are powered by twin Cat C32
ACERT engines, rated at 970bkWat 2,100rpm. Certified with an Tier
2-compliant "B" heavy duty-rating,the C32 ACERT engines are
manufactured in Caterpillars Marine Centre of Excellence
(MCOE) in Greenville, South Carolina, USA, The 3 new tenders
will be christened and commissioned into service
September 29th.

The removable and floating wheelhouse provides seating for three crew and 12 pilots. There is
a rescue platform and Pop-Safe fendering.

Kvichak / Marco Pollution Control Making a Difference in the Gulf

(June 2010)

Kvichak Marine Industries is currently constructing a run of approximately 50 each 30' Rapid Response Oil Skimmers fitted with Marco Pollution Control CL-1 Filterbelt oil recovery modules for our customers who are responding to the current Gulf spill.

The Kvichak/Marco Filterbelt is proving to be one of the most effective oil recovery systems now operating in the Gulf, and is ideally suited for high volume recovery of the oil types encountered in this spill. We are getting uniform praise from Government and commercial operators of these vessels, and we are expecting over 100 skimming vessels utilizing the Filterbelt to be in operation on this spill in the coming weeks. This highly specialized system is adaptable to a variety of marine spill scenarios and is able to recover a very wide range of spills, from light sheens to thick weathered oils contaminated with debris.

The 30 rapid-response, shallow-water vessel is ideally suited for use on oil spills in waterways, bays, and harbors. The all-aluminum skimmer is 30  3 long, with a beam of 8' - 0", and a draft of 2 - 6" and is easily trailerable. Powered by twin 60-70hp outboards, the skimmer is capable of a response speed of over 17 knots.

We have many exciting projects underway and recently delivered! Check out the recently delivered page to learn more about the projects we recently completed.